Pets & Pyrotechnics: Plan Ahead

Big Bear Lake, CA, July 3, 2013 - While most of us are looking forward to one of the top-rated fireworks shows in California this Thursday, the boom of pyrotechnics can terrify cats and dogs.

This severe anxiety often takes the form of uncontrollable shaking, panting, clawing, and frantic meowing or barking. But in some cases, an animal’s reaction to these stressful sounds can pose a real danger to its safety. Veterinarians say that every year, frightened pets break through glass doors, bolt into traffic, go into convulsions, and even experience cardiac arrest.

If you’re not able to stay home with your pets to help keep them calm with a hug, consider giving them a sedative from a vet or using compression vests.